Evaluation of the Usability of Modified Saxon Test

Purpose : The Saxon test is a simple test for xerostomia that can be used for patients wearing dentures who are unable to masticate chewing gum. However, the test requires the use of thick gauze. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the Saxon test can be implemented by using gauze of different sizes or by shortening the measurement time.Materials and Methods : The subjects were 24 healthy individuals (mean age : 23.9 years). The Saxon test was administered first with a gauze sponge (5×5 cm). Saliva was collected by having the patients chew the gauze for 2 minutes. The amount of salivary secretion was determined by measuring the increased weight of the gauze after chewing. Two modified Saxon tests (MSt) were administered : 1) 4×4 cm gauze was used, and the measurement time was set at 2 minutes (MSt 1). 2) 4×2 cm gauze was used, and the measurement time was set at 30 seconds (MSt 2). The relationships between the Saxon test and MSt 1 or MSt 2 were analyzed by regression analysis.Results : The regression analysis of the Saxon test vs. MSt 1 resulted in the regression formula of Y=1.550 X ; vs. MSt 2, the regression formula was Y=2.568 X. There was a highly significant correlation between the Saxon test and MSt 1 or MSt 2.Conclusion : The results of this study suggested that the Saxon test could be administered using different sizes of gauze and shorten the measurement times.